Thursday 22nd October 11am-12pm.

Dave Gibbons, an Honorary Graduate from the University of Dundee, is one of the most famous comics artists in the world, best known as the co-creator of Watchmen, the ground-breaking graphic novel written by Alan Moore. He is also the UK’s first Comics Laureate.

Today he leads a ‘Creating Comics’ workshop for 14-17 year olds – a brilliant opportunity to learn more about Dave’s methods in producing comic art, to use his expertise to produce your own, and to explore Dundee’s new comics space.

Sneak preview of Dundee Comics Creative Space with Dave Gibbons, Tanya Roberts, Letty Wilson and Norrie Millar. DCCS is hosting an informal open day for anyone interested in trying their hand at comic production on Wednesday 21st October and industry stars Dave Gibbons, Tanya Roberts, Norrie Millar and Letty Wilson will be on hand at 2pm to pass on advice or just speak about comics. They, along with other big names from the comics world, will also take part in talks, workshops and other events as part of the Literary Festival. Look out for our extra special guest, a legendary comics figure from Dundee who will be on hand to greet you.

Giants from the comics industry will visit Dundee next week for a sneak preview of a new studio aiming to produce the next generation of superstar artists and writers.

The Dundee Comics Creative Space (DCCS), situated in the Vision Building, Greenmarket, will be officially opened early in 2016 but a series of special preview events will take place next week as part of this year’s Dundee Literary Festival.

DCCS is a new social enterprise and studio project developed by the University of Dundee in collaboration with The Rank Foundation and the Dundee Place Partnership Scheme. The aim is to provide educational workshops and creative opportunities for various age groups and to encourage creative learning through comics.

DCCS will host an informal open day for anyone interested in trying their hand at comic production on Wednesday, 21st October and industry stars Dave Gibbons, Tanya Roberts, Norrie Millar and Letty Wilson will be on hand to pass on advice or just speak about comics. They, along with other big names from the comics world, will also take part in talks, workshops and other events as part of the Literary Festival.

Dr Chris Murray, DCCS Operations Director and a Senior Lecturer at the University, said, “We are delighted that prominent figures from the world of comics are once again taking part in the Dundee Literary Festival.

“Having writers and artists of their stature here is inspirational for anyone who wishes to work in comics, and indeed anyone with a love of the genre. The point of DCCS is to help young comics enthusiasts to develop their skills and nurture the Dave Gibbons’ and Cam Kennedy’s of tomorrow. This is a really exciting development for Dundee and will help cement our place as the home of the British comic industry.”

The 2015 Dundee Literary Festival programme will see some 50 talks, readings, workshops and other events take place from Wednesday 21st to Sunday 25th October. The critically acclaimed writers appearing include Jackie Kay and Janice Galloway. Rab C Nesbitt star Gregor Fisher’s appearance coincides with the launch of his new book about the amazing story of the biological family he traced after finding out he was adopted.

Actor and writer Nick Frost (Spaced, Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz) will also be discussing the personal journey recounted in his memoir Truths, Half Truths and Little White Lies while 2013 winner of the Great British Bake Off Frances Quinn will be talking about her first cook book, Quintessential Baking.

A series of events showcasing the freshest new voices in literature and workshops for aspiring writers will also be held at the Festival, which will also see the winner of the 2015 Dundee International Book prize announced.

During our launch week and in partnership with Literary Dundee we are hosting two events with Comics Laureate Dave Gibbons as part of Dundee Literary Festival 2015.

Dave Gibbons: Comics & Creativity
Wednesday 21st October 4pm

Dave Gibbons, an Honorary Graduate from the University of Dundee, is one of the most famous comics artists in the world, best known as the co-creator of Watchmen, the ground-breaking graphic novel written by Alan Moore. Dave was appointed Comics Laureate in October 2014, the first in the UK, a champion and advocate for the power of comics in improving children’s literacy. One year in the role, we’re delighted to welcome him back to Dundee for a special lecture to mark the opening of Dundee Comics Creative Space, to reflect on his career, visual literacy and learning through creativity.

Check out the event on the Literary Dundee website for more details and to book a place.

Dave Gibbons: Creating Comics Workshop
Thursday 22nd October 11am

Dave will be leading a ‘Creating Comics’ workshop for 14-17 year olds – a brilliant opportunity to learn more about Dave’s methods in producing comic art, to use his expertise to produce your own, and to explore Dundee’s new comics space.

Check out the event on the Literary Dundee website for more details and to book a place.